Stay Above Water with These Pool Efficiency Tips This Season

October 10, 2020

You may think that owning a pool during the colder months is a waste and that cold weather limits your swimming time. However, we’re here to inform you that you can still enjoy a relaxing swim, even in colder months — you just need to know how to efficiently keep your pool heated during the winter season! While keeping a pool open during winter is still an added expense, there are things you can do to make it more affordable.

Here are some of the best ways to keep your pool running efficiently and keep the enjoyment going throughout the season:

1. Install an automatic timer with freeze protection.
   An automatic timer is a solution for every pool owner who doesn’t want to constantly turn their pump on and off all winter. Automatic timers with freeze protection turn your pump on and off for you, both on a schedule, and whenever temperatures reach a pre-set limit.
   They can also be installed to run your pool heat pump automatically, too. Please take the time to learn about how much power a pool heat pump consumes. While pool heat pumps can be a nice asset to your pool, they contribute significantly to your overall consumption. It is worth the time to educate yourself and eliminate the surprise factor with your next bill.
2. Keep your water warm and above freezing temperatures.
   Determine the best temperature for your pool to ensure you are operating your pool for maximum efficiency. Most pools are kept at 78°F to 82°F; each degree rise in temperature will cost 10%–30% more in energy costs, depending on your location. This is where an efficient swimming pool heater comes in. Learn about pool heating options and estimate the costs for gas heaters, electric heat pumps, and solar pool heaters.
   
   Select whichever one works best for you and your budget. Installing an energy-efficient pool pump and operating it efficiently will be key to keeping your water at a comfortable temperature and saving on pool heating costs.
3. Turn off and winterize water features.
   Running your pump prevents freezing and keeps water flowing throughout your pool system. But your water features, like the fountain and waterfall, are a different story. They usually run on their own pumps and set of pipes. So unless you plan to also run your water features whenever you run your pump, it’s usually best to close the valves, turn them off, and keep them winterized.
4. Cover your pool to retain heat.
   Whenever you’re not using your pool in the winter, cover it. It’ll keep it clean, and prevent heat from escaping, both of which save you time and money (lowers energy costs). If you still plan to swim in your pool during the winter, use a solar cover. They’re easy to remove, lightweight, and quick to set up. But if you’ll only be keeping your pool uncovered on occasion, consider a more permanent winter cover or safety cover.
   
   With these pool efficiency tips, you can extend your swim season without the fear of draining your wallet.